Train tickets: 5 ways to help save money on them in 2023

Train tickets can be a costly expense, but if you need to travel using that method of transport then there are a few methods to save a bit of money.

Cheap train ticket site SplitMyFare has uncovered a few ways of capitalising on loopholes, utilising discounts, and pre-planning to help you spend less.

A spokesperson from SplitMyFare said: “The cost-of-living crisis is being felt nationwide this winter, so it’s important to make the most of opportunities to travel as cost-effectively as possible. Using these tips will help people to do just that and minimise the impact of what can be a costly process.”

Railcards can help make savings on train tickets (Image: PA)

5 ways to make savings on train tickets

Book 12 weeks in advance for the best discounts

Advance fares are much cheaper than flexible tickets, and as they are usually available around three months before the date of travel, there is plenty of time to finalise plans before purchase.

SplitMyFare gave an example of a single journey from London to Manchester being up to 25% cheaper when booked in advance this way.

This had the advance ticket costing £39.40 compared to a £68.20 flexible ticket, which is a saving of nearly £30.

Even if you can’t book tickets this far beforehand, advance tickets may be available up until an hour before departure.

Get a railcard

In the long-term railcards are worth the starting investment, even if you do not travel regularly by train.

Most railcards mean you could save up to 1/3 on train fares, meaning you can make an annual saving of between £140 and £199 which will mean the railcard pays for itself.

A full list of railcards you can get can be seen on the railcard website here.

Renew your railcard the day before your birthday

Buying or renewing a 16-25 railcard the day before your 24th Birthday (if you are buying a three-year railcard), or the day before your 26th (if you are getting a one-year railcard) will extend its life a little.

A railcard can sometimes save up to a third off tickets (Image: PA)

SplitMyFare said: "This simple trick will ensure you are eligible for the associated discount for almost an entire extra year, saving an average of £199. The same trick for a 25-30 railcard with renewal or purchase done just before the 31st birthday, can also earn an extra year’s discount."

Travel during off-peak times

Cheaper tickets are available at off-peak times which is generally any time post 9.30am in large towns and cities, and past 9am in other locations.

If you can be flexible with your departure time then you can get a little discount.

Travel together to save on tickets

If there’s someone you regularly travel with, the Two Together railcard earns up to 1/3 discount for both passengers.

Additionally, if you’re making your journey in a group of 3 to 9 people SplitMyFare offers GroupSave cheap tickets with 1/3 off routes during off-peak hours.

All tickets must be booked together, and all passengers must travel together. GroupSave is not available with every operator so it is worth checking in advance.

Your Money Matters

Your Money Matters is a campaign launched by us and our sister titles across Newsquest to help you overcome the surge in the cost of living.

This year has seen a whole host of household price increases — from the energy price cap rise to surging inflation and food prices — costing your family hundreds or even thousands of pounds extra per year.

We’re making it our mission to look out for your cash, offering money-saving deals, competitions, giveaways and insightful stories from your community on the impact this cost-of-living crisis is having on our readers.

The worldwide energy crisis exacerbated by the Ukraine invasion, the financial impact of the Covid pandemic, record inflation figures and a surge in the cost of goods, fuel and travel means we will all feel the pinch.

Through our newspaper, we want to do what we can to help make your cash go further because we know your money matters.